donnybrook

noun

don·​ny·​brook ˈdä-nē-ˌbru̇k 

variants often Donnybrook

1

: free-for-all, brawl

2

: a usually public quarrel or dispute

Synonyms of donnybrook

• brawl

Examples of donnybrook in a Sentence

A donnybrook has erupted over the court's decision.

a dozen people were arrested after the donnybrook at the stadium

Recent Examples on the Web

More of the big TV-news operations feature hot-talk programming in primetime that is designed to appeal to partisan audiences, or just those looking for tension or a verbal donnybrook. —Brian Steinberg, Variety, 10 Nov. 2025

Of course, that’s exactly what Governor Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu and the developer want; A knockdown, drag out, talk radio donnybrook over a shelter being shoehorned into a tiny former nursing home nestled among a family neighborhood in the Holy Name parish. —Lou Murray, Boston Herald, 29 Oct. 2025

In short, this super-sized donnybrook does not seem likely to quiet down anytime soon. —Alexei Oreskovic, Fortune, 7 July 2025

Completing the quartet is Justin Withers’ Demetrius, who unleashes his comic chops during a hilarious donnybrook. —Rob Hubbard, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Donnybrook Fair, annual Irish event known for its brawls

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for donnybrook

• kinderhook
• meadowbrook
• overlook
• overtook
• pocketbook
• storybook
• tillamook
• undertook
• betook
• casebook
• chapbook
• checkbook

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Geographical Definition

Donnybrook

geographical name

Don·​ny·​brook ˈdä-nē-ˌbru̇k 

city in the province of Leinster, eastern Ireland

Note: Donnybrook is a southeastern suburb of Dublin.